"Tie-in" trapezium prosthesis: Long-term results

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Rheumatology
• Biomaterials Science

Background:

• Thumb base osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis significantly impact hand function and quality of life.
• Trapezium replacement arthroplasty is a surgical option for managing severe thumb base arthritis.
• Silicone-Dacron implants offer a potential solution for joint reconstruction.

Observation:

• A review of 17 patients who underwent silicone-Dacron trapezium replacement arthroplasty for thumb base arthritis.
• Assessment of patient satisfaction, pain relief, range of motion, stability, and implant-related complications.
• Histological examination of explanted implants in cases of adverse tissue reaction.

Findings:

• Overall patient satisfaction was high, with pain relief achieved in 17 out of 20 cases.
• Three patients required implant excision due to adverse tissue reactions, with histological findings reported.
• Satisfactory, though not normal, motion and stability were observed post-surgery.
• Postoperative subluxation occurred in six patients, and two cases showed implant wear and bone erosion.

Implications:

• Silicone-Dacron trapezium replacement arthroplasty demonstrates good outcomes for thumb arthritis, despite potential complications.
• Further research into implant materials and surgical techniques may mitigate risks like tissue reaction, subluxation, and wear.
• This procedure offers a viable option for restoring function and alleviating pain in patients with debilitating thumb arthritis.